Radtouren-magazine tested 10 current bikes equipped with Pinion’s 18 gear bb-mounted gear box. STEVENS P 18 Lite not only is the lightest bike in test, it was also awarded with the ”best value for money” recommendation.

It set new standards for acceleration and a smooth ride, ”Radtouren” wrote. The ”best value for money” was awarded because of its combination of great handling and a price of 3.599 Euros, which marks the entry level to the Pinion-class.

The ”price value winner”, equipped with a lubrication and maintenance free belt drive from Gates, is especially well suited for fast daily commuting and touring. ”The well-balanced seating position, a comfortable wide handlebar plus very good Ergon grips and a geometry tuned for directional stability are a real treat when touring.”

Additionally the hydraulic disc brakes are a good choice when riding with heavier luggage. The frame’s high torsional stiffness offers a lot of safety while riding with luggage, says ”Radtouren”: ”The P 18 is best in test for riding with luggage and offers the best handling of the competition.” What the editors also liked in terms of good looks and technology was that chain tension can be fixed via adjustable drop outs.

Three years after the Pinion gear box’s introduction the idea of a frame mounted transmission is gaining popularity, says ”Radtouren”. Its advantages are 18 speeds with a range of 636 % from lowest to highest gear and a constant 11.5 % increase between gears. ”The drive train principle looks well proven … the gear box works very silently and you can change gears easily and smoothly even under load thanks to a short lever throw.

The additional weight of 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) compared to conventional derailleur shifting is not that important in trekking and travel bikes especially since it’s located low and in the middle of the bike which improves handling.

Conclusion: In the lower price range The STEVENS P18 places itself on top as a fast all-round bike for city touring and travelling without any flaws.

STEVENS P18 Lite with anodized frame is equipped with belt drive, hydraulic disc brakes, pannier rack with stiff reinforcement rail, inner cable routing and Supernova LED lights.